Clinical Implications of Postsurgical Adhesions and Fibrosis: The Role of Vitamin C in Prevention and Control

Abstract

ABSTRACT Postsurgical adhesions are common complications of surgery that affect millions of postsurgical patients worldwide. These are abnormal fibrous bands that form between organs or between organs and the respective walls during the healing process post surgery. Patients undergoing all kinds of surgeries can develop postsurgical adhesions. Increased risk of morbidity (including longer operative hours, multiple readmissions, longer hospital stays, and increased healthcare expenses) and mortality are among the associated complications. Despite various interventions being implemented with varying levels of success, their application and effectiveness remain limited. Due to its ready availability, affordability, and lack of significant side effects or reported adverse drug reactions, vitamin C supplementation can be an effective approach for preventing and controlling postsurgical adhesions and fibrosis, given the growing evidence supporting its effectiveness as the postsurgical adhesions and fibrosis preventive and control agent.

Keywords

• adhesiolysis
• fibrosis
• postsurgical adhesions
• vitamin C